Page 56 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2026

HEALTHY LIVING
story by Dr. Nickie Harris-Ray
With society today being fast-paced and uncertain, understanding the value of self-advocacy is important for anyone looking to improve their life outcomes. Self-advocacy not only helps you navigate challenges but also fosters resilience, allowing you to bounce back stronger than before. By tapping into your self-advocacy skills, you can take control of your path and make meaningful strides toward your goals.
At the heart of self-advocacy are several key skills: confidence, communication, collaboration, and knowledge of resources. Recognizing what matters most to you is vital for your well-being and health. When you develop robust self-advocacy skills, you unlock the ability to identify your strengths and weaknesses, which ultimately enables you to pursue what you truly want in life.
56 | February 2026
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
Start by prioritizing your needs and believing in your potential. It’s important to understand that you are the creator of the map of your life. The initial steps in self-advocacy involve making researched decisions that can lead to improved outcomes for your current situation. By learning to identify and express your needs, you empower yourself to navigate various life challenges effectively.
As you embark on this journey, embrace new experiences and seek out helpful resources. Completing these actions will help you grow and manifest the reality you desire. Remember, you potentially have the power to shape your life’s direction. Successful self-advocacy involves knowing what you desire and finding ways to get it.
By becoming a strong self-advocate, you can enhance your quality of life and gain a sense of fulfillment and well-being. So in this second month of 2026, take that first step today—your future self will thank you for it!